Chiefs among NFL's top linebacking corps, says Willie McGinest

It’s not surprising that the Chiefs have given big contracts to their offensive linemen over the years.

After all, Kansas City has to protect its quarterback from some of the best linebackers in the league twice per season due to playing in the AFC West. This division boasts three of the best linebacking corps in the league.

Don’t take it from me, though. Take it from Willie McGinest, former linebacker for the New England Patriots and future Pro Football Hall of Famer.

“The Chiefs might not be as athletic as some of the other teams on this list, but they play the run and get after the quarterback collectively better than any other group in the league when healthy. Yes, the Chiefs have some studs in the secondary, but this defense is successful because of its linebackers. They cover well, and as far as the run game and rushing the passer go, they’re as good as anybody. The Chiefs control the line of scrimmage and have strong, physical players in this unit. There isn’t just one player who stands out in this group. They are all solid.”

It’s difficult to disagree with McGinest’s assessment on the Chiefs’ linebackers. Individually they may not be classified as elite anymore (injuries and age have slowed down Justin Houston, Tamba Hali and Derrick Johnson lately), but they’re all very good (including Dee Ford and Ramik Wilson).

Having five strong linebackers that each have the potential to give elite performances is what makes this Chiefs squad so great. With another offseason to get healthy and ready for the 2017 season, KC’s linebacking corps may be ranked No. 1 by season’s end.

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